Delaware Childrens Theatre
1014 Delaware Avenue
Wilmington DE 19806
Telephone: 302-655-1014
Fax: 302-655-4182
E-mail: DEChildrensTheatre.org
http://www.dechildrenstheatre.org/

   The theatre generally does four or five children's show per season and one "adult wing" fundraiser. Adult wing shows in the past have been "The Sound of Music" and "Jesus Christ Superstar".  The theatre also offers an outreach program, acting workshops for children, and maintains its century-old
historic theatre-house.

   DCT prides itself on providing high quality entertainment for children and has maintained its excellent reputation for almost 30 years.  The theatre serves as a training ground for many child actors and technicians as well as providing a wholesome outlet for adult performers who enjoy theatre and working with and performing for youngsters.  DCT is a volunteer-based community theatre.  Payment comes by way of adoring children scrambling for autographs.  Although one might not be paid monetarily like a star, you will definitely feel like a star after every performance!

   Most of DCT's productions are musicals, so a decent singing voice is helpful.    However, some shows do offer non-singing roles.  Most auditions will require a vocal audition unless it is otherwise noted.
Principal roles which require singing need STRONG voices as DCT does not use an amplification
system.  Projection is a must.

   Auditions are friendly and fairly informal.  Be prepared to fight a crowd, however as advertised auditions are always very well attended.  It is not uncommon for DCT to run auditions for two shows at once.   The usual audition process consists of singing a song of your own choice.  Someone who is new to auditioning can sing something as simple as "Happy Birthday" if they so choose -- anything to show off their voice.  In most cases, performers will be asked to read from a script or perhaps improvise a scene as directed.  Young children who do not yet read well from a script are prompted by members of the casting committee.  Newcomers to theatre are encouraged to audition, however, DCT does not usually cast children under the age of seven.  The audition process is one of the least stressful of any theatre I have been to.  Every attempt is made to make the performer (adults as well as children) feel comfortable and at ease.

   Adults within the theatre are looked upon as mentors.  Not only must they sing and act, they must serve as positive role models to the younger cast members.

   There's no big money in it, however, for anyone who enjoys children and performing, it's a great place to do shows.  Another benefit is the fact that rehearsals only run until 9:30 p.m. (with an occasional 10:00 p.m. for adults) -- a plus for those of us with "day jobs".   With rare exception, performances are on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

   Opportunities for music directors and technical support are also available at DCT.